logo

SICILY SMALL GROUP TOUR

SICILY SMALL GROUP TOUR image

An Intimate Journey from Palermo, to Western Sicily, Mt. Etna & Taormina

​ Experience a meaningful tour of Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, with only 6 to 12 travelers for a more intimate experience.

Led by engaging local guides and pampered with luxurious accommodations, each moment on our 9-day Sicily Small Group Tour unveils new wonders waiting to be discovered. The legacies of Greek, Roman, Arab, French, and Spanish influences intertwine to weave tales from a bygone era.

We begin in Palermo, skipping the crowds to delve into the layers of past civilizations. From Palermo’s vibrant food market, we transfer to Monreale and marvel at the Cathedral’s extended golden mosaics, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Next, we visit the picturesque windmills dotting the salt pans in western Sicily and the mountaintop town of Erice. Setting sail from Trapani on a high-speed ferry, we take a fascinating tour of the former Florio Tuna Fishery on the island of Favignana, followed by a traditional lunch focused on food traditions shaped by history.

From centuries-old olive trees that produce exceptional olive oil, to a home-cooked al fresco lunch, our Sicily Small Group Tour continues to a luxurious 5-star resort in Agrigento’s sun-drenched countryside. We explore the evocative Greek Temples, visit the charming, off-the-beaten-path town of Naro, and the surrounding wine region.

For the final chapters of our Sicily tour, we move to the volcanic slopes of Mt. Etna for two nights in a secluded country retreat, surrounded by fertile vineyards and old lava flows. We top off with a pistacchio farm, private dinners, and a day trip to world-famous Taormina, with a timed entrance to the Ancient Greek and Roman Theatre.

Whether it’s the warm hospitality of the local winemakers and hosts or the stunning views from your balcony, our curated Sicily Small Group Tour promises to showcase the elemental character that defines this remarkable region.

A post-tour extension to Siracusa and Noto is available on request (see below for details).

Map of the trip locations

Map

A. Palermo

Palermo, PA, Italy

B. Monreale

90046 Monreale, PA, Italy

C. Alcamo

91011 Alcamo, Free municipal consortium of Trapani, Italy

D. Marsala

91025 Marsala, Free municipal consortium of Trapani, Italy

E. Erice

91016 Erice, Free municipal consortium of Trapani, Italy

F. Trapani

91100 Trapani, Free municipal consortium of Trapani, Italy

G. Favignana

91023 Favignana TP, Italy

H. Castelvetrano

91022 Castelvetrano, Free municipal consortium of Trapani, Italy

I. Agrigento

92100 Agrigento, AG, Italy

J. Bronte

95034 Bronte, Metropolitan city of Catania, Italy

K. Taormina

98039 Taormina, Metropolitan City of Messina, Italy

L. Catania

Catania, Metropolitan city of Catania, Italy

Overview

Overview image

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS image
info icon
  • 9 days | 8 nights

  • From Palermo to Catania

  • Group size: 6-12 guests

  • Private Tour of Monreale's Golden Mosaics

  • Visit an Active Salt Pan

  • Day Trip to Favignana Island

  • Al-Fresco Lunch in an Olive Oil Farm

  • Fine Dining overlooking Agrigento's Greek Temples

  • Lunch & Wine Tasting in two boutique wineries

  • Pistacchio Farm on the slopes of Mt. Etna

  • Taormina's Ancient Theatre

  • Private dinner on the slopes of Mt. Etna

  • Erice, Palermo, Valley of Temples, Naro

PRICING & DATES

PRICING & DATES image
info icon

2027 Rates and Dates

5595€ per person in double occupancy; 6690€ in single occupancy

  • October 11 — 19 : OPEN

megaphone icon

The rate includes:

  • 2 nights in Palermo (Palazzo Cartari or similar), breakfast and porterage included

  • 2 nights near Trapani (Parco Degli Aromi or similar), breakfast and porterage included

  • 2 nights in Agrigento (Doric Boutique Hotel or similar), breakfast and porterage included

  • 2 nights on the slopes of Mt. Etna (Dimora Cottanera or similar), breakfast and porterage included

  • Private van or minibus (as per itinerary), including airport transfers, permits and parking fees

  • Tour manager for 9 days

  • 3 traditional dinners, 1 fine dining, all with wine included

  • Food tastings in Palermo

  • 2 lunches in a boutique wineries

  • Lunch in Favignana

  • Tour of an olive oil farm, olive oil tasting, and al fresco lunch

  • Tour of a historic Pistacchio farm and light lunch

  • Tour of a salt pan

  • Return tickets for high-speed boat from Trapani to Favignana

  • Local guide in Favignana, tickets for Florio’s tuna fishery museum 

  • Local guide for a day in Palermo and tickets for Monreale’s cathedral

  • Local guide (2 hours) and tickets for the Valley of Temples in Agrigento

  • Local guide (2 hours) and tickets for the Ancient Theatre in Taormina

  • VAT 22%

  • Tour Operator Limited Liability Insurance and Bankruptcy/Extraordinary Circumstances Insurance (Fondo di Garanzia)

  • Assistance throughout the planning process and travel tips

 

The rate does not include:

  • Hotel City Tax (between 3 to 5€ per person per night)

  • Personal travel insurance

  • Airfare to/from Italy

  • Credit Card fees

  • Any other meal, tasting, entrance fee, transfer, personal expense, tips and anything else not mentioned above in the field “The rate includes”.

PAYMENTS DEADLINES


  • The tour is confirmed with at least 6 participants

  • A 30% down payment is required in order to confirm the reservation (refundable up to 90 days).

  • The remaining balance is due 45 days before the tour.

CANCELLATION POLICY

  • There shall be a 250€ non-­refundable processing fee (per person) on any cancellation request, regardless of the time frame within which the cancellation is submitted;

  • From 90 days to 46 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 30% of the price;

  • From 45 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 100% of the price

  • Read here the full terms and conditions.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance can cover different trip components, from the full trip cost for unforeseeable reasons to medical expenses, emergency transport, luggage loss, theft while on tour, and evacuation. Without a membership, an emergency evacuation could cost over $100,000.

While each insurance company has different deadlines and policies, our partner Global Rescue allows customers to purchase their best insurance package (IMG Signature Plus) that includes the “Cancel-For-Any-Reason” policy within 20 days from the initial deposit. Other less-inclusive memberships can be purchased until the date of departure.

Meet Piemonte Tour Operator partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading travel protection services. Medical and security emergencies happen. When they do, our guests can rely on Global Rescue to provide medical, security, travel risk, and crisis response services. More than one million members trust Global Rescue to get them home safely when the unexpected happens.

Learn more about Global Rescue

HOTELS

HOTELS image
accommodation icon

Palazzo Cartari

2 nights in Palermo

Boutique luxury hotel in the vibrant city center of Palermo. Rooms and suites decorated with high-quality finishes reflect the Sicilian allure with unique and precious details.  

accommodation icon

Parco degli Aromi

2 nights near Trapani

Modern and sleek accommodations in a conveniently located resort, with breathtaking views overlooking the bay below. Wellness center and infinity swimming pool.

accommodation icon

Doric Boutique Hotel

2 nights in Agrigento

​Pampered with modern amenities, fine details, and a sumptuous breakfast, this luxurious resort offers unique views over the temple of Juno and the Mediterranean.

accommodation icon

Dimora Cottanera

2 nights on Mt. Etna slopes

​Once a family country house at the foot of Mt. Etna, today a secluded luxurious retreat, surrounded by fertile vineyards. Contemporary decor blended with tradition.

REVIEWS

REVIEWS image

The trip itinerary was by itself wonderful—the landscape, the hotels, medieval towns, wineries, olive and pistachio farms, museums and churches. At no time did we feel stressed or rushed. Staying at each hotel for 2 or 3 nights helped. The pace suited us to a tee. Clarissa,our tour director, is a treasure—caring, knowledgeable, warm, funny, flexible and now a “family member”. She “got us”. One day I wasn’t well and she adjusted the schedule so that I would not miss seeing the planned sites. She gave us options and steered us to those things she knew we would enjoy-always. This was by far the best trip my husband and I have ever taken. As a result of our overwhelmingly positive experience we are signing up for next year’s Puglia trip. See you then.
Linda P. – May 2025

Great guided tour of western Sicily! Top notch hotels, great restaurants and an itinerary that includes the major cultural and historic sites but also off the beaten path treats. Highly recommended Meet Piemonte’s Western Sicily tour!
Joe D. - April 2025

Traveling with Meet Piemonte has been just amazing. From the moment we met our driver at the airport, all travel worries and stressors were left behind. Marco is incredibly detail oriented, always professional with an added touch of humor, informed and informative. We visited and experienced the hidden gems of Sicily, dined like locals and also like royalty, enjoyed fine wine daily. I cannot imagine traveling in Italy any other way !
Maggie V. - October 2024

info icon

Read all reviews on Tripadvisor and on Google

Day 1

Day 1 image

Our Sicily Tour Begins in Palermo

transport icon

Transfer from Palermo Airport and Check In

general icon

Orientation Talk with The Tour Manager

meal icon

Welcome Dinner in a Renowned Osteria

Meals included: dinner
Accommodation: Palermo

Upon arrival at Palermo airport, you will meet our driver and be transferred to a luxurious boutique hotel, a perfect retreat from Palermo’s bustling streets.

This evening, you will meet your fellow travelers and your tour manager for a brief orientation talk before enjoying our first group dinner at a renowned osteria in Palermo, where we will toast to our Sicily Small Group Tour.

Day 2

Day 2 image

Palermo's Highlights​ and Monreale’s Golden Mosaics

activity icon

Private Guided Walking Tour of Palermo

meal icon

Tasting of the Famous Palermo's Street Food

activity icon

Private Guided Tour of Monreale Cathedral and its Golden Mosaics

general icon

Time at leisure and Dinner on your own in Palermo

Meals included: breakfast and food tasting
Accommodation: Palermo

Embark on an unforgettable tour of Sicily, starting in the vibrant city of Palermo. This city is an extraordinary tapestry of history and art, shaped by centuries of diverse conquerors and influences.

As we explore on foot, we will visit the breathtaking Martorana Church and experience the lively atmosphere of the Capo food market, renowned for its culinary delights. At the bustling Quattro Canti intersection, be captivated by the stunning fusion of Arab, Norman, and Byzantine architecture, alongside the majestic Neo-Classical Opera House that stands as a testament to Palermo’s rich heritage.

Our engaging local guide will lead you through hidden streets and cherished local spots, enhancing your experience with stops to savor Palermo’s famous street food, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.

In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic 30-minute drive to the enchanting town of Monreale. Here, you will witness the remarkable cathedral, commissioned by Norman King William II in 1172, a true marvel of architectural beauty.

Allow our local guide to lead you through the awe-inspiring golden mosaics that adorn the interior, recognized as among the most extensive and exquisite in the Mediterranean.

Upon returning to Palermo, the rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure, with dinner on your own, providing the perfect opportunity to savor the local dining scene. Don’t miss this chance to discover the heart and soul of Sicily!

Day 3

Day 3 image

Alcamo Wine Region, The Salt Pans, And Erice

transport icon

Check out and Drive to the Alcamo Wine Region

meal icon

Wine Tasting with Lunch in a Winery

activity icon

Guided Tour of an Active Salt Pan

accommodation icon

Check-In and Relax

meal icon

Dinner in Erice

Meals included: breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Trapani ‘s countryside

After checking out, we embark on an enchanting drive west to Alcamo’s renowned wine region. Here, a beautifully restored fortified farmhouse invites us to explore its cellar and production facility, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

Immerse yourself in a tasting of indigenous grape varietals, such as the Catarratto, which forms the backbone of the esteemed Alcamo DOC wine. Our lunch, perfectly paired with homemade dishes, becomes a delightful and educational journey through the rich flavors of Western Sicily you won’t want to miss.

The Salt Pans of Trapani and Marsala

As our Sicily Small Group Tour unfolds, we make our way to the stunning shores of the Stagnone lagoon. Our knowledgeable local guide captivates us with tales and intriguing facts about the ancient art of salt production, all against a backdrop of sun-soaked coastlines and strong winds.

In the mid-afternoon, we check into a boutique resort with spectacular views of the Western Sicilian coastline.

Unwind by the pool or wander through the serene gardens before reaching the mountaintop town of Erice with a short drive, just before dinner time, when most tourists will be gone.

Founded by the Romans and developed in the Middle Ages as a center of Christian convents, Erice’s mystical vibe comes alive at sunset. Our tour manager suggests the best local restaurants for a memorable dinner on your own.

Day 4

Day 4 image

The Essence of the Mediterranean: a Day Trip to Favignana Island

transport icon

High Speed Ferry to the stunning Island of Favignana

activity icon

Visit the Former Florio Tuna Fishery

meal icon

Learn how to make Cous Cous with a Chef & Lunch

meal icon

Stop in Trapani on the way back and Dinner on your own

Meals included: breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Trapani ‘s countryside

Embark on a short drive to the port of Trapani, where a high-speed ferry whisks you away to the enchanting island of Favignana in just 30 minutes. Favignana, the largest of the Aegadian islands, beckons with its laid-back charm and vivid colors, truly a hidden gem on our Sicily Tour.

As you step onto the dock, our knowledgeable local expert greets you and guides you to a delightful coffee break in the lively main piazza. Immerse yourself in history as we step into the former Florio tuna fishery, now a captivating museum, that served as the economic backbone of Favignana for over a century. Be ready for a journey through rich traditions, ancient myths, and ingenious fishing techniques that have played a vital role in sustaining tuna populations in the Mediterranean.

Lunch will focus on the ancient art of making couscous, the most iconic local dish, and other delicious, freshly prepared courses.

Enjoy some free time, maybe to dip your toes in the sea, before returning to Trapani, with the option to explore the elegant shopping streets of the city center alongside your tour manager. Dinner is on your own, either in Trapani or at the hotel’s restaurant. 

*Please note that in case of rough sea conditions, we prioritize safety and may arrange for a larger ferry. If weather conditions are unfavorable, the Favignana excursion will be substituted with another enriching land-based activity. No refunds will be given in either scenario.

Day 5

Day 5 image

From an Olive Oil Farm to Agrigento Luxurious Resort

activity icon

Explore one of the Sicily’s premier Regions for Olive cultivation

meal icon

Olive Oil Tasting and Al Fresco Lunch

general icon

Check In at the Hotel in Agrigento and Free Afternoon by the Pool

meal icon

Fine Dining at the Hotel

Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Agrigento

After checking out this morning, we explore the countryside of Castelvetrano and Menfi, one of Sicily’s premier regions for olive cultivation. Here, among century-old olive trees rooted in mineral-rich soil, you’ll discover a world of extraordinary flavors as we sample award-winning olive oil in a home-cooked al fresco lunch, a true Sicilian highlight! Lunch will not only deepen your appreciation for extra-virgin olive oil but also focus on fresh vegetables, Castelvetrano sourdough bread, and traditional recipes crafted with love.

As we traverse the picturesque plains and rolling hills adorned with vibrant orange groves, we’ll arrive in the sun-soaked countryside of Agrigento. Here, you’ll check into a luxurious 5-star resort, perfectly positioned with breathtaking views of the Valley of the Temples and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea.

Arriving after lunch allows our guests to unwind in style, whether by your private patio pool or at the larger central pool by the bar. Finally, prepare to be amazed at dinner as the resident chef dazzles us with a creative menu featuring local ingredients and traditional recipes, all reimagined with a modern twist and served with fine dining finesse. This is an experience you won’t want to miss!

Day 6

Day 6 image

The Valley of Temples, Naro & Lunch with Wine Tasting

activity icon

Guided Tour of the Best-Preserved Greek Temples in the World

meal icon

Lunch with Wine Tasting in a Farmhouse

activity icon

Visit the Town of Naro

meal icon

Return to Agrigento and Dinner on your own

Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Agrigento

Part of the experience on our Sicily tour is waking up to the fragrances of aromatic herbs, flowers, and lush Mediterranean vegetation. Enjoy breakfast in the sunny and tranquil countryside of Agrigento, at one of the few hotels in the area where you won’t hear any traffic.

A short 5-minute bus transfer will take us to the entrance of one of Italy’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Valley of the Temples. This site features some of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world, dating back to the 6th century B.C. Our informative and friendly local expert will guide us on a journey back in time, and the tour will last approximately two hours.

Next, we will explore the countryside of Agrigento, known for its local DOC wine appellation. We will visit the President of the consortium in his private home—a restored “Baglio,” or farmhouse, perched on a hill overlooking the vineyards. Lunch will be served on the outdoor terrace (in case of inclement weather, we will dine in the indoor dining room) and will feature a tasting of Sicily’s indigenous grape varieties, Grillo and Nero d’Avola, along with international grapes such as Syrah and Chardonnay.

Our small group tour will then take us to Naro, a hidden gem in our Western Sicily and Syracuse adventure. This Baroque and medieval town is less popular than Noto but deserves a visit for its elegant architecture, including churches and aristocratic palaces. We will take a leisurely walk to experience this typical Sicilian town, where few tourists visit, allowing us to see local life in its authentic form.

For tonight’s dinner, you have the option to drive to the nearby beach town of San Leone to try one of the casual pizzerias or seafood restaurants. Alternatively, you may choose to stay for a romantic à la carte dinner at the hotel’s refined restaurant.

Day 7

Day 7 image

Pistacchio Farm on Mt. Etna

transport icon

Drive to Mt. Etna

activity icon

Visit a Pistachios Farm with Lunch

transport icon

Check-in on the slopes of Mt. Etna

meal icon

Dinner and Wine Tasting at Dimora Cottanera

Meals included: breakfast, light lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: on the slopes of Mt. Etna

After another great breakfast at our luxurious resort, we will check out of Agrigento and drive toward the enchanting eastern coast of Sicily.

As we traverse the stunning landscapes of mainland Sicily, we prepare for captivating stories, intriguing facts, and ample photo opportunities. Marvel at the hilltop towns, golden wheat fields, and secluded valleys, including the breathtaking city of Enna, dramatically perched on a cliff, alongside the historical region of former sulfur mines.

Our adventure takes us to the lower slopes of Mt. Etna, near Bronte, where a remarkable microclimate created by the sea’s proximity and fertile volcanic soil fosters the cultivation of the world’s finest pistachios.

Here, you’ll meet Andrea, the passionate owner of a historic farm, where the time-honored art of grafting crooked pistachio trees and harvesting these exquisite nuts has been passed down through generations. As you relax in the farm’s charming courtyard, savor a delightful light lunch featuring an array of savory and sweet specialties crafted from these delectable pistachios, celebrated for their exceptional taste.

We continue our scenic drive around the base of Europe’s highest active volcano, making our way to the next luxurious inn, which is surrounded by ancient lava flows and lush vineyards.

Upon check-in, you can explore the grounds and amenities of this former family country house, now transformed into a hotel. We enjoy tasting Mt. Etna wines, such as the robust Etna Rosso and the vibrant Etna Bianco, learning how the unique terroir influences each sip. Partake in an evening of friendship and relaxation, pairing wines with local delicacies in an informal yet cozy setting.

Day 8

Day 8 image

Taormina's Ancient Theatre and Views

activity icon

Skip the Crowds at Taormina's Ancient Greek Theatre

activity icon

Free time in Taormina

meal icon

Farewell Dinner on Mt. Etna

Meals included: breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: on the slopes of Mt. Etna

After enjoying a delightful breakfast featuring local products, we set off for the world-famous Taormina. Our expert local guide will take us to the iconic Ancient Greek and Roman theatre, where we will enter through a reserved entrance. Next, we will explore the beautiful gardens overlooking the bay of Giardini Naxos, with the majestic Mt. Etna in the background, as well as other hidden stories of Taormina.

You’ll have free time to wander the charming alleys of the town center, filled with high-end fashion stores, artisan pottery, and elegant cafés.

In the afternoon, we will escape the crowds of Taormina and return to our secluded hotel, where we will enjoy one last evening of tranquility, delicious Sicilian food, and wine at our Farewell Dinner.

DAY 9

DAY 9 image

Arrivederci

Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: n/a

Enjoy one more breakfast before checking out. A group transfer to Catania’s airport is included.

Until we meet again!

AIRPORT TRANSFERS & ON-TOUR LUGGAGE

AIRPORT TRANSFERS & ON-TOUR LUGGAGE image
megaphone icon
Flight Information
  • Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the tour cost.

  • Suggested arrival airport: Palermo (PMO). 

  • Suggested departure airport: Catania (CTA)

info icon
Airport Transfers
  • Arrival day: private transfer from Palermo’s airport to the hotel. The transfer may be shared with the other guests of our group

  • Departure day: a group airport transfer from Siracusa to Catania’s airport is included. The driving time is approximately 1 hour.

info icon
On-Tour Luggage Restrictions

In addition to airline luggage restrictions, please consider that:

  • Due to our van/bus space limitations during the tour, we ask you to limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person, weighing around 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

  • Each guest can also bring one carry-on and a small, soft-sided bag or backpack for day-to-day travel. The space onboard our vans and minibusses, as well as the overhead rack and the space under the seat, is typically very limited, just enough for small bags and purses.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS image
megaphone icon

​PASSPORT AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

It is your responsibility to obtain the necessary documents for traveling to Italy, depending on your country of residence.

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the end of your tour to enter Italy. Currently, no vaccinations are required, but it is your responsibility to stay informed about any changes to this requirement.

For citizens of other non-European countries traveling internationally, it is advisable to contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine the required travel documentation.

lightbulb icon

MOBILITY AND HEALTH

To enjoy our Western Sicily & Taormina Tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances. This is not a physically demanding tour, however, there will be a lot of walking, often on uneven steps, cobblestones, uphill and downhill.  One of the charming aspects of Italy is its historical and architectural conformation. Many towns and attractions can only be visited on foot, as vans and buses cannot access the pedestrian areas where most places of interest are located.

While the driving time on our tours is limited, getting to remote farmhouses and villages may require driving on windy roads that may cause motion sickness.

warning icon

WHEELCHAIRS

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Our tour managers and tour guides are unable to provide ongoing individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other physical needs.

megaphone icon

HOTELS, WI-FI, AIR CONDITIONING

Due to the historic nature of many luxury boutique hotels we stay in, some rooms may have stairs and can vary in size and layout. Additionally, air conditioning in Italy, as well as the Wi-Fi connection, may not be as reliable as it is in the United States.

lightbulb icon

GRATUITIES and OTHER THINGS TO KNOW

Gratuities for hotel staff and waiters are included in the tour price. Guests may choose to leave a tip for drivers and guides as a token of appreciation for their services. Suggested tipping amounts will be communicated approximately a month before departure via email, along with a list of important information about Italy, including what to pack, how to manage money withdrawals, electricity usage, VAT refunds, and more.

ABOUT US

ABOUT US image

Meet Piemonte Tour Operator

Meet Piemonte (legal name Meet Voyager SRL), is a fully-licensed Italian Tour Operator enrolled in the Chamber of Commerce of Asti (REA: 131678), in Piedmont, northwest Italy.

Learn more about us.